IntensiveApproach

A recent review of data about patients in intensive care units (ICUs) suggest that the best medicine involves getting them out of bed and moving as soon as possible.

This advice runs counter to the routine use of deep sedation and bed rest that can lead ICU patients to experience long-term physical impairment and poor quality of life after their hospital discharge. The first understanding of the benefits of the get-out-of-bed-and-get-moving approach to treating hospitalized patients came during World War II, with regards to battlefield injuries. The review recently undertaken demonstrates that the benefits of early mobilization are real and that a return to it should be carefully considered. The current sedation-and-bed-rest routine may result in unnecessary muscle weakness.

In fact, careful and supervised movement can be the best treatment for any number of injuries. Our friendly therapists will work with you, one-on-one, to create a recovery plan tailored to your unique set of needs: Your injury, your mobility, and your situation. And, if you're unable to make it to our facility, we'll come to your home and provide your treatment there. We can help you whether you're recovering from something as dramatic as a stint in ICU or something simple as a slip on the ice that sprained your wrist. Call us at 949-429-3220 to make appointments or visit our facility at 27136 B. Paseo Espada, Suite 1103, San Juan Capistrano.

P.S. Lengthy bed rest can lead to changes in heart function among ICU patients.